14 Surprising Things Californians Can Buy at Costco Without a Membership

Many Californians assume you need a membership to shop at Costco. But that’s not always true.

From pharmacy items to select online deals, non-members have access to more than you might think.

Here’s what you can buy at Costco without ever signing up.

Prescription Medications From the Pharmacy

You don’t need a membership to fill a prescription at Costco’s pharmacy. Federal law requires warehouse clubs like Costco to allow public access to their prescription services.

That means anyone can walk in, drop off a prescription, and pick it up just like they would at a traditional pharmacy.

You can also call ahead to check prices, which are often much lower than what local drugstores charge.

Some locations even let you order refills online for in-store pickup, without needing a login or membership number.

Costco.com Purchases on Select Items

You don’t need a membership to place an order on Costco’s website, but there’s a catch: Some items are member-only, and others come with a surcharge for non-members.

Still, many products are available for anyone to buy online, including home goods, electronics, and furniture.

You’ll see a note at checkout if a membership is required. But for the most part, the process is simple and open.

Non-members can check out as guests and still score decent deals without ever setting foot in a store.

Immunizations

Costco pharmacies don’t just fill prescriptions for non-members. In some cases, they also offer walk-in immunizations.

So, if you’re in the market for a vaccine and near a Costco but don’t have a membership, it doesn’t hurt to ask.

That said, don’t expect to grab some over-the-counter medication or supplements while you’re at it. Such items are strictly for Costco members.

Eye Exams at Costco Optical

You can’t buy glasses or contacts without a Costco membership, but you can schedule an eye exam at Costco’s optical department.

The doctors of optometry who work there are often independent contractors, and their services are open to the public.

You just need to call ahead and make an appointment, no membership number is needed to book or pay.

If you’re due for a vision check, Costco can be a cost-effective option compared to private optometrists.

Online Hearing Aid Screening

Costco’s hearing centers offer free in-person hearing tests for members. However, you don’t need a membership to take their online initial screening.

Simply head to Costco’s Hearing Aid Screening page and answer a handful of questions.

You’ll need a headset, for they’ll ask you to answer questions about how well you hear in each separate ear.

If you’d like an in-person hearing consultation or to purchase hearing aids, you’ll need to splurge on a Costco membership. However, the savings you’ll receive on hearing aids could easily cover the cost and thensome.

Gift Cards Purchased Through a Member

If you have a friend or family member with a membership, they can buy Costco Shop Cards (essentially gift cards) for you to use.

These cards allow non-members to shop in the store, as long as the card covers the total purchase amount.

You won’t be able to reload the card without a member’s help, but you can still access the deals and walk out with a cart full of items.

It’s a great workaround if you only want to shop at Costco occasionally.

Alcohol in Certain States

In some states, alcohol sales at warehouse clubs must be available to the public by law.

That means you can walk into Costco and buy wine, beer, or liquor without flashing a membership card.

Laws vary by state, so it’s always best to check your local rules. But in several areas, Costco is one of the best places to find name-brand alcohol at wholesale prices.

And yes, you can even buy Kirkland Signature liquor without joining.

Travel Packages Through Costco Travel (Viewing Only)

Costco Travel offers impressive deals on vacation packages, cruises, rental cars, and hotel stays, but there’s a catch.

Non-members can browse all the options online and get a sense of pricing, but only members can actually book.

That said, it’s still a useful way to comparison shop or decide if a membership might pay for itself through travel savings.

The site’s transparency makes it easy to weigh your options before making any decisions.

Photos and Prints Through Costco Photo Center

Costco no longer has in-store photo labs, but its online photo services are still available, and you don’t need a membership to use them.

Anyone can upload photos and place orders for prints, photo books, greeting cards, and other custom items.

You’ll just need to create a free Costco Photo Center account, which is separate from a regular Costco membership.

It’s an easy way to take advantage of affordable printing without paying the annual fee.

Caskets and Funeral Arrangements Online

It might surprise some people, but Costco sells caskets and urns through its website.

These products are available for anyone to purchase, regardless of membership status.

You can place an order online and have it shipped directly to the funeral home of your choice.

It’s a little-known option that can save families money during a difficult time.

Insurance Quotes and Enrollment Services

Costco partners with insurance providers for auto, home, and health policies. But you don’t always need a membership to request a quote.

Some services allow you to compare rates or even enroll in coverage online as a non-member.

While members may get access to lower premiums or added benefits, the basic tools are often still available to everyone.

It’s worth checking out if you’re shopping for a new policy and want to compare offers.

Discounted Movie and Theme Park Tickets via Gift Cards

While gift cards inside the store require a member to purchase them, many Costco locations stock bundles for movie theaters, theme parks, or restaurants that can be used by anyone.

If a member buys these for you, you can use them freely, no membership needed at the venue or attraction.

These deals often include savings like two tickets for the price of one or extra credit with each card.

It’s a great way to enjoy a fun outing at a lower cost, without ever setting foot in Costco yourself.

Select Items from Instacart or Same-Day Delivery Services

In some areas, Costco partners with delivery platforms like Instacart to offer same-day grocery delivery, even to non-members.

You can shop from a limited selection of Costco items online and have them delivered to your door, though there’s typically a markup on prices.

It’s still a convenient way to get bulk groceries or household items without making a trip or joining the club.

Just be sure to compare prices before checking out, as delivery fees and price differences can add up.

Special Event Tickets and Limited-Time Offers Through a Member

Sometimes, members can purchase access to exclusive events or limited-time offers, like concerts, local festivals, or sporting events, and gift them to non-members.

These deals often come in the form of voucher codes or printable tickets that can be used freely by anyone.